An Anniversary, A Nominee, and an Amicus, Oh My!

Last week Republican lawyers from across the country gathered here in Washington, DC for the RNLA Policy Conference.  This event also marked the twenty-fifth anniversary of the RNLA.  I’d encourage you to read Bob Horn’s article reflecting on the past, present, and future of the organization.

As we celebrated this milestone the Senate Judiciary Committee held a confirmation hearing for liberal academic Goodwin Liu for a seat on the Ninth Circuit.  Mr. Liu, a professor and a leader of the American Constitution Society, admitted he never tried a case through to fruition, and has had little courtroom expertise.  Mr. Liu claimed that is “record is an open book.”  Unfortunately this book leaves many unanswered questions.  As Senator Sessions noted "He's never tried a case, never argued a case on appeal."

Senator Cornyn was right to ask "I guess the question I have is, is this the right job for you?"

Today keep your eyes focused on the Supreme Court.  As the session winds down there are still some interesting cases yet to be heard.  Today the Court will hear arguments in the case of City of Ontario v. Quon, a case that may determine whether government employees have a right to privacy while using government messaging equipment.

The Court will also be hearing arguments in the case of Christian Legal Society v. Martinez.  This case involves a challenge to a University of California Hastings' derecognition of a Christian student group because it requires its members and leaders to be Christians.  The RNLA has filed an amicus brief in this case.